Author: Joseph Renor Obrino

The Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLED) Program of Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) took the lead in implementing the “Kingkoy Chronicles: Animated Info Series” during a TECH-LECTORS outreach activity held at Sta. Margarita National High School on December 17, 2025. This program underscored the BTLED Program’s commitment to translating technical knowledge into meaningful community service through the medium of creative digital animation. Designed and carried out by both students and faculty, the outreach centered on using animation as a strategic tool for enhancing Local Government Unit (LGU) information campaigns. Throughout the session, senior high school learners were introduced to basic animation principles and visual storytelling techniques through structured tutorials and hands-on activities. These lessons were specifically aimed at improving the clarity, engagement, and accessibility of public information. The activity featured an intensive tutorial followed by a production session where participants developed sample animated materials inspired by real-life LGU information needs. Learners eventually presented their outputs, successfully demonstrating how creative media can simplify complex governmental messages and make public information more relatable to a diverse audience. BTLED Program Chair Engr. Christy B. De Veyra emphasized the program’s advocacy for purposeful technology use, noting that the goal is to equip learners with practical ICT skills while showing them that digital animation is a powerful tool for public service. The outreach concluded with the awarding of tokens and certificates during a closing program that reinforced the importance of continuous learning and the responsible use of technology in the digital age. By leading this initiative, the BTLED Program reaffirmed its role in strengthening school-community partnerships and promoting innovative approaches to information dissemination. The organizers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Michael Jude T. Casaljay, Municipal Information Officer, and Mr. Mark Anthony G. Domingo, Sangguniang Bayan Secretary of the Municipality of Sta. Margarita, for their generous support and donation of snacks. Their contribution significantly enhanced the comfort and positive learning experience of the participants, reflecting a strong collaboration between the local government and the academic community. Additionally, sincere appreciation was extended to Dr. Alvin A. Aguirre, the Secondary School Principal of Sta. Margarita National High School, whose unwavering support and cooperation were vital to the smooth implementation and overall success of the activity.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) College of Nursing (CON) brought together its faculty, BS Nursing Level I and II students, and their parents for a CON-sultative Assembly, spearheaded by Dr. Bianca Genel B. Bedio, CON Dean. The actuvity aimed to foster clear communication, align all stakeholders, and ensure shared understanding of key academic and administrative matters critical to the smooth implementation of the Second Semester. The program opened with warm welcome remarks and a rationale by Dr. Myra L. Pilpa, Director for Student Affairs Services, representing Dr. Ramil S. Catamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Pilpa emphasized the importance of parental support in helping students pursue their goal of becoming the nation’s noble healthcare frontliners. Following the opening segment, the event recognized academic excellence through the awarding of Top Performing students from the First Semester of Academic Year 2025-2026. Dr. Bedio then led the assembly proper, covering essential agenda items including second semester academic requirements, schedules of classes, duties, and fees. The assembly ensured all attendees were fully informed of institutional standards and expectations for the upcoming semester. After the core discussion, Mr. Rafael Jason N. Tarrayo, a CON faculty member, facilitated an open forum where parents and students raised concerns, asked questions, and engaged in collaborative discussion with the college team. The CON-sultative Assembly successfully achieved its objectives, providing timely guidance to students, addressing pressing concerns, and strengthening policies that support academic progression. Moving forward, the College of Nursing highlighted its commitment to working hand-in-hand to nurture competent, compassionate nursing professionals.

The University Performance Management Team (UPMT) from Northwest Samar State University’s Main and San Jorge Campuses convened at the University President’s Board Room for a crucial assembly regarding the university’s Strategic Performance Management System (SPMS) on January 6, 2026. The assembly centered on the presentation and calibration of targets under Operational Plan 2026, as well as the submission of Organizational Performance Commitment and Review (OPCR), Departmental Performance Commitment and Review (DPCR), and Individual Performance Commitment and Review (IPCR) documents. The gathering aimed to ensure all necessary paperwork and supporting data were prepared and aligned for the year’s strategic implementation. During the session, the team’s members—including University Vice Presidents Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz (VP for Research, Innovation, and Extension), Dr. Ramil S. Catamora (VP for Academic Affairs), and Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling (VP for Administration and Finance)—engaged in constructive discussions calibrating targets, programs, and projects across various university units. These included the internal audit office, legal unit, internationalization office, planning office, General Services and Infrastructure Project Management Office, Project Development Unit (PDU), and all academic colleges. The collaborative effort strengthened alignment between central and campus-level operations, laying a solid foundation for transparent and accountable performance management throughout the institution. With these preparations complete, the university is poised to pursue its 2026 priorities with improvement, coordination, and a shared commitment to excellence.

The Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Administrative Division rounded out 2025 with a lively holiday celebration on December 20, bringing all administrative personnel together at the RSU Socio-Cultural Center for their annual Christmas Party. Following the theme “Rock the Track with Denims and Colors,” the venue came alive with celebratory holiday as personnel dressed in stylish denim attires with cheerful hues, matching the vibe of the event. Led by the Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance, the gathering was organized to mark the end of the year with camaraderie and joy.Spearheaded by Dr. Rhio C. Dimakiling, Vice President for Administration and Finance, the celebration was filled with fun activities that kept everyone engaged from start to finish. The program featured exciting raffle draws with special prizes, vibrant games and contests that ignited friendly competition, and a high-energy “track grind” session played by DJ Van Geras. Every moment was filled with enjoyment and cheer, creating memories as the team celebrated their collective achievements and welcomed the holiday season.

Congratulations to Hon. Teodoro A. Amatosa, Jr. on formally stepping into his role as the newly elected President of the Federation of Alumni Association, Newly Sworn Alumni Regent! Hon. Amatosa’s oath taking took place on December 17, 2025, during the Fourth Quarter Board of Regents Meeting, marking a key turning point in his commitment to serving the alumni community and contributing to the strategic direction of the institution. We look forward to his leadership as he bridges the interests of alumni and the academic leadership, fostering stronger connections and leading initiatives that raise the entire Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) family.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) convened a deliberation meeting to finalize its institutional entries for the World University Innovative Ranking, consolidating 40 flagship programs aligned across 24 recognized categories. The meeting was presided over by the Officer-in-Charge Vice President for Academic Affairs, Mr. Niel Darryl Branzuela, and attended by designated focal persons representing each category. The deliberation aimed to validate program documentation, ensure alignment with global innovation indicators, and confirm the strategic positioning of NwSSU’s initiatives in relation to teaching innovation, research impact, sustainability, community engagement, and governance effectiveness. NwSSU’s participation underscores its commitment to benchmarking institutional performance against international standards, advancing a culture of innovation, and gaining global visibility for locally grounded solutions. By joining the ranking, the University seeks to objectively assess its competitiveness, identify areas for improvement, and affirm the relevance of its programs in addressing community and development challenges. The 40 programs demonstrate tangible impacts across instruction, research, extension, and innovation. These include technology-enabled learning initiatives, inclusive access to education, applied research responsive to regional needs, sustainable development projects, and partnerships that translate academic outputs into social and economic value. University officials emphasized that the exercise goes beyond compliance and recognition. It reflects NwSSU’s strategic direction to institutionalize innovation, scale high-impact programs, and position the University as a proactive contributor to national and global development agendas.

University President Dr. Benjamin Pecayo and FANwSSU Vice President Dr. Romeo B. Santos convened with key officials, heads of offices, and representatives to deliberate on the implementation of Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Budget Circular 2025-2 governing the grant of the Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) Incentive. During the meeting, it was affirmed that the University fully satisfied all prescribed conditions for the grant of the CNA Incentive, namely: the existence of a valid CNA, the achievement beyond established performance accomplishment targets, and the timely submission of required accountability reports. In line with DBM guidelines on the allowable amount, the University is set to release the assured CNA Incentive to eligible personnel not earlier December 15, 2025. The CNA Incentive may be granted to both management and rank-and-file employees of agencies with approved and successfully implemented CNAs, serving as recognition of collective efforts in meeting performance targets at lower cost and in advancing more efficient and sustainable operations through cost-cutting measures and systems improvement. This development underscores the University’s sustained commitment to performance excellence, accountability, and shared gains arising from effective labor-management cooperation.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) held its Health Symposium on December 6, 2025, at the NwSSU BDC, with the theme “Heal, Protect, Transform: Integrated Health Sessions on Mental Wellness and Anti-Sexual Harassment.” Hosted by the University Health Center, the event brought together Graduate School Students, for a day of learning and empowerment focused on critical health and safety issues. Undergraduate students with Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Literacy Training Service (LTS) courses also attended the event virtually as part of their academic learning. The session kicked off with Mrs. Ma. Gemma L. Tapel, Gender and Development (GAD) Director, who delivered a warm welcome message and shared the rationale behind the symposium—emphasizing the need to address gaps in mental health support and sexual harassment awareness among the university community. Ms. Toni Charm B. Calag, University Nurse, then introduced the first speaker, Dr. Ofelia Amores Monesit-Abayan, who led the discussion on mental health. Dr. Abayan’s discussion centered on the profound psychological impact of violence, discrimination, and harassment on individuals’ lives, while also providing practical guidance on how to respond when faced with such challenges—including knowing when and how to voice out and take action. Attendees actively engaged by sharing their personal experiences, fostering a safe environment. She also highlighted key tools and skills for mental wellness, such as integrating positive practices and strengthening resiliency to empower self-esteem. Following her insightful presentation, the university awarded Dr. Abayan with a certificate of appreciation. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Moving to the next phase of the event, Dr. Ellery D. Daguman, University Dentist, introduced Atty. Ma. Cecile Candida Yabao-Rueda, who discussed on sexual harassment and the legal frameworks governing it, mainly focusing on Republic Act (RA) 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) and RA 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995). Atty. Rueda elaborated complaint and investigation procedures, the role of the Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI), penalties for violations, and strategies for prevention—including education, orientation, and gender sensitivity programs. She also stressed the importance of inclusivity and protection for all genders. After which, she was also awarded by the university a certificate of appreciation. The day concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Ian D. Becoñado, Multi-Faith Services Coordinator and CWTS Team Leader, who expressed gratitude to the university for prioritizing the safety and well-being of its stakeholders, as well as to the speakers for sharing their knowledge and expertise. He encouraged all students to not hesitate to report concerns to the University Health Center or GAD Office while assuring them full support and protection. Beyond benefiting the attendees, the symposium benefited as well NwSSU with its commitment to foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive academic institution. The event also enhanced the university’s institutional reputation as a leader in addressing mental health and gender equality, aligned with its academic values of holistic student development. By equipping students and graduate students with knowledge and resources, the event prepares them to be responsible individuals who advocate for justice and wellness.

Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) played a critical role in regional economic collaboration by joining the Eastern Visayas Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Summit 2025. The event was held on December 5, 2025, at The Tropics at McArthur in Palo, Leyte. As one of the valued SSF cooperators, NwSSU was represented by Mrs. Ivy B. Aligam, Supervising Administrative Officer, and Mr. Jake B. Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office (IMCO). Their participation reflected NwSSU’s commitment to addressing challenges and shaping actionable solutions for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) development through local SSF Programs. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the summit united SSF partners across Eastern Visayas to celebrate achievements, share best practices, and explore opportunities for business growth and networking. The SSF Program is designed to empower MSMEs and boost their productivity by providing access to essential machinery, equipment, tools, and skills. NwSSU currently manages two SSFs for Food Processing across both its campuses and is preparing to launch an upcoming SSF for a Digital Fabrication and Printing Production Center. This highlights its potential role as a catalyst for economic innovation in the region. The summit commenced with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the SSF Photo Gallery and Region 8 Product Special Setting, led by DTI Regional Director Dr. Celerina T. Bato. Opening remarks emphasized collaboration, featuring messages of support from regional directors and focal persons. Attendees then delved into an agenda that blended reflective discussions with forward-looking strategies. Mr. Artemio T. Almazan III, OIC of the Chief of the Business Development Division (BDD), provided an overview of the summit’s goals, followed by Mr. Alfee Rei Galapon, Chief Trade Industry Development Specialist (CTIDS), who presented the SSF Physical and Financial Accomplishments. An open forum concluded the morning session, allowing stakeholders to voice concerns, with DTI’s Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (BSMED) pledging national action to address regional challenges. adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. The afternoon session featured the event’s highlight: the presentation of the Best SSF Project Award 2025 from the SSF Programs across Eastern Visayas’ six provinces. A “Fast Talk” segment then showcased insights from the Region 8 Best SSF 2025 Nominees, offering inspiration for scalable models in various sectors, including digital manufacturing. NwSSU’s representatives actively participated, sharing expertise on best practices and strategies concerning presentation, usufruct agreements, ownership transfer, and local MSME development. As academic cooperators, they focused on the integration of academic resources with industry needs. The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to the Region 8 Best SSF Project 2025 awardee and the panel judges. The awardee’s acceptance speech highlighted the transformative potential of partnerships, while the judges emphasized the importance of adaptability in sustaining MSME competitiveness. The SSF Summit 2025 not only celebrated progress but also outlined a roadmap for resiliency and inclusive growth. By nurturing interaction among academia, government, and industry, events like this strengthen the SSF Program’s impact, turning challenges into opportunities. NwSSU’s proactive role signals its evolution from an educational institution to a key regional development partner, ready to equip MSMEs with the means to thrive in an evolving economy. As Eastern Visayas embraces innovation and collaboration, the summit’s outcomes promise a brighter future for local enterprises and communities across the region.